WCDO Radio News

State Prison inmate David Sweat of Broome County is reportedly on a Hunger Strike at Attica state prison. State Correction officials announced that they are seeking a court order to insert a feeding tube for Sweat. Sweat is serving jail time for the 2002 murder of Broome County Deputy Kevin Tarsia, and for participating in the highly publicized escape from the Dannemora prison in 2015.

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The number of craft beverage manufacturers has grown by 50% since the enactment of the Craft New York Act 3 years ago. In the three years since the Craft Act was enacted, 35 cideries, 60 wineries and farm wineries, 67 craft distillers and 178 craft breweries have opened for business in the state. Of those 340 new businesses, 260 are farm-based producers that use locally sourced ingredients in their production.

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President Donald Trump is engaging in a Twitter feud with Democratic New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, after the Senator called on Trump to step down due to numerous accounts of sexual harassment by several women against Trump over the last 4 decades. The President called Gillibrand disloyal, for allegedly asking Trump for Campaign Contributions a few years ago before Trump's alliance with the Republican Party.

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Governor Cuomo today directed the New York Department of State to issue new regulations holding consumer credit reporting agencies accountable to the public. The regulations, adopted on an emergency basis and effective immediately, require consumer credit reporting agencies to respond within 10 days to requests made by the Department of State's Division of Consumer Protection on behalf of consumers. The new regulations to protect consumers are available at dos.ny.gov/consumerprotection.

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The State's "Charge NY" initiative is offering electric car buyers a Rebate of up to $2,000 for new car purchases or leases, which when combined with a Federal Tax Credit of up to $7,500 can lead to savings for New Yorkers interested in the newer Green vehicles. State residents who buy or lease a plug-in hybrid or battery-powered car may qualify for the Drive Clean Rebate. Currently, there are 30 electric car models that can qualify for the rebate programs.

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The Sidney Chamber of Commerce Holiday Business After Hours event is being held today. The Sidney Federal Credit Union will host the event at the headquarters on Union Street in Sidney from 5:00 to 7:00 PM.

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The Delaware County Office for the Aging will hold a Holiday Open House Wednesday at their new location. The Open House will run from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM at the 97 Main street location in Delhi.

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State Police attempted to stop a Geo Tracker in Binghamton for multiple traffic violations, the operator of the vehicle failed to comply and a pursuit began to Windsor. The occupants threw auto parts into the path of pursuing law enforcement vehicles, their vehicle was eventually stopped with the use of tire deflation devices on Main Street in the village of Windsor, when the two occupants fled on foot & were arrested after a short chase. The vehicle operator was 23 year old Aaron Vogel of Hallstead, Pennsylvania, he was charged with the felony of Reckless Endangerment, Driving a Motor Vehicle While Impaired by Drugs, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer, Resisting Arrest, and multiple traffic violations. The passenger, 20 year old Dylan Thompson of Montrose, Pennsylvania was charged with Reckless Endangerment and Resisting Arrest. They were arraigned and remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 60 year old Louis Brigandi of Walton, for Felony Criminal Mischief, Aggravated Harassment and Trespassing. Brigandi allegedly entered on to a neighbor’s property in the Town of Hamden and intentionally damaged property, he was arraigned in the Town of Hamden Court and was released to re-appear at later date.

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The Sidney Main Street revitalization Project is wrapping up the work on one side of Main Street this week, except for the planting of trees perennials & grass that will be planted in the spring. Ian Law of Place Alliance explains:

(Ian Law 12-4-17)

The other side of Main Street will have construction begin in the spring, with plans calling for that side to be finished in time for the Hometown Day Parade in June.

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Chenango County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 37-year-old Timothy Heady of Smyrna, fur unlawful manufacture of Methamphetamines. Heady was arrested as deputies were conducting a follow up in reference to a burglary in the area; Deputies were then assisted by the State Police Crime Scene Contamination Unit. Heady was arraigned in the Village of Sherburne Court and was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on cash bail; he will reappear in the Town of Smyrna Court at later date.

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State Police arrested 65-year-old Joaquin Delgado of the Bronx, for Aggravated DWI, with a B.A.C. result of .20% and other traffic violations, after troopers responded to a report of a car in a ditch on Phillips Odell Road in the town of Guilford. Delgado was not injured; he was issued tickets returnable to the town of Guilford Court on January 18, 2018.

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Michael Rodriguez of Pennsylvania was charged with reckless endangerment & assault, for firing allegedly firing a weapon at the Galleria Mall in Wallkill on November 26th. A mother & 12 year old son were injured in the shooting, Rodriguez will not be arrested on any weapons charges as he had legal permits to carry the weapon in both Pennsylvania & new York.

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Fire investigators have ruled that it was static electricity set fire to a flammable liquid during the manufacturing process that led to a fire at the Verla Cosmetics factory in New Windsor on November 20th. 1 person was killed & 125 suffered a variety of injuries at the plant that employed 225 people.

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The Broome County Legislature has tabled a vote on accepting state funding for the proposed opioid addiction center being opened in the former Broome Developmental Center. The State had offered 2.7 Million dollars toward start up costs at the facility, which was scheduled to open early next year. Syracuse Behavioral Healthcare is scheduled to operate the facility.

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51-year-old John Gomes of Cohoes has been charged with reckless endangerment & arson, for allegedly trying to recreate a smithing technique he saw on television that led to a fire that destroyed 3 buildings & damaged 18 others last Thursday in Cohoes. 1 firefighter was injured in the Thursday afternoon fire, which spread rapidly from Gomes's backyard due to 20 to 30 mile an hour wind gusts.

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Governor Cuomo responded regarding the Senate passage of a tax bill that would be devastating to New York State:

(Cuomo 12-3-17)

Senators Gillibrand & Schumer voted against the measure.

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State University at Oneonta officials announced that a freshman at the college died over the weekend. 18-year-old Daniel Michaels of Dix Hills died Saturday evening, details surrounding the death have not yet been released, and a memorial service was held on campus Sunday for Michaels.

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The State DOT announced that construction on the I-86; I-81 & State Route 17 projects will be ramped up at several locations this week, starting this morning. Motorists are advised to check 511 for the latest traffic patterns in the Binghamton area.

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The Oneonta Parks & Recreation Committee will hold their next regular meeting today, that meeting will begin at 7:00 PM at the Oneonta Common Council Chambers at City Hall.

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A Pre-Trial Hearing was held in Chenango County Court today, regarding the murder & arson trial of Ernest Franklin of Guilford, who along with his wife Heather are accused of killing their son Jeffrey & setting the family residence on fire to cover it up. A Pre-Trial Hearing for Heather Franklin has not been scheduled, Chenango County District Attorney Joseph McBride has stated that the 2 will be tried separately, The Trial is expected to begin next year.

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Governor Cuomo announced more than $220 million in federal grants that will support counter terrorism and emergency preparedness activities in counties across New York State. The funding supports regional preparedness efforts, including planning, organization, and training activities that are critical to sustaining and improving community prevention, protection, response, and recovery capabilities. Locally Broome County received $364,894, Chenango County $109,968, Delaware County $99,971 & Otsego County $109,968

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U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced $1.8 Million Dollars for the Sidney Municipal Airport, through the Federal Aviation Administration. the Airport will use the funding to construct a new taxiway. The funding is awarded through the Airport Improvement Program and is administered by the FAA, for grants to public agencies for the planning and development of public-use airports.

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Governor Cuomo announced that 124 Airmen from the 106th Rescue Wing of the New York Air National Guard will deploy this afternoon to the U.S. Virgin Islands to assist in the response to Hurricane Irma. Additionally, the Governor is deploying Task Force 2 to Florida, that team specializes in structural collapse rescue, excavation emergencies, technical rope rescues, confined space rescue, and other specialized rescues.

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State Police arrested 24-year-old Adam Gager of Windsor on 7 counts of Falsifying Business Records. Police were advised of a theft of over $800 from the Mirabito gas station on Old Route 17 in the town of Windsor, Gager was an employee, He is accused of deleting items from the store sales records and using the money to purchase lottery tickets. Gager was arraigned in the town of Windsor court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail in lieu of $2,000 cash bail or $4,000 property bond.

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Delaware County Public Health announced their last Free 2017 Rabies Vaccination Clinic for dogs, cats and ferrets, which will be held on October 18th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Delhi Fire Hall. Delaware County Public Health recently announced the 4th rabid animal of the year, which was a rabid bat with 1 human exposure. More information about rabies is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com

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Hartwick College will celebrate the 40th Anniversary of its men’s soccer team’s NCAA Division 1 National Championship this weekend. In December 1977, Hartwick College stunned the collegiate soccer world by defeating the defending champion and heavily favored San Francisco 2-1 in Berkeley, California, The festivities will begin Saturday at 6:00 PM at the Lambros Arena, at Hartwick College. Tickets are available to the general public for $40 at hartwickalumni.org or at 431-4064.

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The annual Otsego County Hazardous Waste Collection Event continues tomorrow at the Meadows complex from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Otsego County Planning Director Karen Sullivan explains:

(Karen Sullivan 9-8-17)

This service is Free for all Otsego County households; more information is available at otsegocounty.com or at 547-4225.

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The annual Toys for Tots Golf Tournament will be held today at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich. Registration begins at 8:00 AM, with a captain and crew format, plus lunch, on-course beverages and buffet dinner included. Proceeds will benefit Toys for Tots.

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On Sunday, the Democratic Committee of Delaware County is hosting their 2nd Community Barbecue. The event will be held at the Hamden Town Hall Pavilion from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. The Town Hall is located at 37029 State Highway 10, Hamden, NY 13782. 8 candidates running for the 19th Congressional District in the 2018 elections have been invited to participate. More information is available at dcnydems.org.

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The Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival will be held Saturday & Sunday in Downtown Norwich, Spokesperson Celeste Friend explains:

(Celeste Friend 9-8-17)

The event runs from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm Saturday & from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Sunday, more information is available at 336-FEST or colorscape.org.

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The Salvation Army based in Sidney will hold an additional collection drive again for those affected by Hurricane Harvey, spokesperson Marie Cole explains:

(Marie Cole 9-8-17)

Cole said that they will be collecting at the Sidney Great American until 6:00 PM tonight & from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Saturday.

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Delaware County Sheriff Tom Mills Announced his retirement today, effective August 28th. Mills has served as Delaware County Sheriff for almost 19 years & has served in Law enforcement for over 50 years. Undersheriff Craig DuMond will officially become Acting Sheriff until Mills vacancy is filled by appointment or by election in November.

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3 people were indicted by a Chenango County Grand Jury last week, on a variety of assault charges, following the beating of a man in Norwich in June. Joseph P. Hughes, Joseph C. Hughes & Nicholas Hughes were indicted following the attack on an individual on Silver Street in Norwich, the victim suffered face & skull fractures & brain bleeds, the 3 were remanded back to the Chenango county jail without bail pending future court action.

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U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $1,061,034 for Head Start programs at Delaware Opportunities. The federal funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and will be used to support child care services for low-income families in the Southern Tier Region. Head Start provides comprehensive child development programs for low-income children at ages 3 & 4, as well as supports and services for their families.

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Governor Cuomo today announced that the Department of Motor Vehicles' Facial Recognition Technology Program has identified more than 21,000 possible cases of identity theft or fraud since its launch, with more than 7,000 of those cases generated in the last 18 months alone. The milestone is due in part to a major technology upgrade in January 2016 that doubled the number of measurement points mapped to each driver's photograph, which has resulted in more than 4,000 arrests and more than 16,000 individuals facing administrative action.

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Catskill Area Hospice will complete a consolidation of their facilities into one building in Oneonta by the end of the year. The organization will be located at the former Mang Insurance office on River Street in Oneonta, they previously were housed in 2 locations in Oneonta, where both of those buildings are for sale, and previous location in Delhi & Cobleskill closed earlier this year.

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Since the 2006 & 2011 floods that devastated much of the Upstate region, Progress has been slow in order to safeguard people & property from any future catastrophic weather events. Area Assemblyman Pete Lopez comments:

(Pete Lopez 8-21-17)

Lopez said that a key issue is that, it's not a matter of "If" harsh weather hits the upstate counties again, but "when", and he is concerend that necessary measures might not be completed in time.

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The Greater Afton Chamber of Commerce has taken over the "Afton Sidewalk Days" Saturday, to keep a long time local tradition going forward, Chamber President John Hinman explains:

(John Hinman 8-21-17)

The Event will run this Saturday from 9:00 to 4:00 on Afton's Main Street, shuttles will be available to & from the event.

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The Otsego County Northern Transfer Station in Cooperstown will be closed for construction starting today through September 30th. Information on other locations for disposal can be found online at otsegocounty.com or by calling 547-4225.

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Commerce Chenango announced that a Solar Eclipse Viewing Party will be combined with their monthly Business After Hours event, at the Rogers Environmental Education Center, in Sherburne from 4:30 to 6:30 PM today.

The New York State Senate's Joint Task Force on Heroin and Opioid Addiction is scheduled to meet Wednesday On Long Island to gather more input on the growing crisis across the state. Similar meetings have been held around the state as the task force seeks to understand how the increase in overdoses and addiction is impacting local communities. The panel included local State Senator Fred Akshar, they expect to hear from law enforcement officials, addiction experts, health care professionals, and recovering addicts and their families, Lawmakers included more than $200 million in this year's state budget for efforts to prevent and fight addiction.

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested Shawn Peck of Walton, after an investigation into an ongoing neighbor dispute. Peck is accused of causing $250 worth of damage to the property of another person on separate occasions. Peck was charged with 2 counts of Criminal Mischief, he was released on appearance tickets to appear in the Village of Walton Court at a later date. Walton Police Department assisted in the investigation.

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Norwich Police arrested a man & his 2 sons, following an investigation into a June 5th assault. Police arrested 54 year old John Hughes, 27 year old Joseph Hughes & 25 year old Nicholas Hughes of Norwich on 1st degree Assault Charges, after the victim was found unconscious in the middle Silver Street with trauma to the head and face. The victim was taken first to Chenango Memorial Hospital & then was transferred to UHS Wilson Hospital in Johnson City with a fractured eye socket, skull fractures and brain bleeds. All 3 suspects were remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $5,000 cash bail each.

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Manufacturing in New York State grew for a 2nd month in July, but at a slower pace than the Month before. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York reported that its Empire State Manufacturing Index dropped to 9.8 in July from 19.8 in June; any reading above zero still indicates expansion. The measure of new orders dropped to a still respectable 13.3, shipment growth was less than half from June at a 10.5 reading.

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US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is making appearances this week in the upstate counties; to discuss federal efforts to combat Lyme Disease. Currently, the Trump Administration has started the process to establish the "Tick Borne Illness Disease Working Group", forming the group was a provision in Gillibrand sponsored legislation "The Lyme & Tick Borne Illness Prevention, Education & Research Act", which became law in December. The group will serve as an advisory committee to the Department of Health & Human Services. In 2015, there were 3200 cases of Lyme Disease in New York State alone.

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New York State Trooper Joel Davis killed in the line of duty last week, thousands attended his funeral Saturday at the Fort Drum sports complex, which was used to accommodate the crowd of thousands of law enforcement officers from the U.S. and Canada. Trooper Davis was killed while responding to a domestic dispute July 9th.

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Governor Cuomo and Attorney General Eric Schneiderman announced that, if the House or Senate health care bill is signed into law, New York State will bring a lawsuit challenging the bill's constitutionality:

(Cuomo 7-18-17)

Cuomo said that the bill delivers tax cuts to insurance companies and high-income people, it would worsen the fight against the opioid epidemic, & would drive up costs for people with preexisting conditions.

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The Oneonta Common Council will hold their next regular meeting tonight at City Hall. The meeting will begin at 7:00 PM in the 2nd floor Common Council Chambers.

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Certified Child Safety Seat Technicians will hold a safety seat check educational event today in Oneonta. Parents are asked to bring their existing child seat & manual, the event will be held in the parking lot at the Southside Oneonta Home depot from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. More information is available at 547-4230.

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Delaware County Public Health announced today that 2 dogs in the Town of Walton came into contact with a raccoon that tested positive for rabies. There was no human exposure reported. 1 of the exposed dog’s rabies vaccinations was not up to date, the owner is working with Delaware County Public Health and Town of Walton officials to ensure the dog will be quarantined for 6 months. The other dog was up to date; it received a booster, and will not need to be quarantined. Public Health recommends that pet owners take advantage of free rabies clinics on Wednesday from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, at the Delhi Fire Hall, on August 9th from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the Franklin Fire Hall, or August 23rd from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Sidney Fire Hall.

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U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand will announce a series of Town hall Meetings around the state, following a session in Syracuse last week. Gillibrand said that many people have registered concerns about losing the so-called "Obama-Care" in favor of the Republican backed proposals that could throw 22 million Americans off of Health insurance, according to the Congressional Budget office.

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The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office & the Broome County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Village of Oxford man on an active arrest warrant for Forcible Touching. 27-year-old Michael Pier was wanted on an active arrest warrant issued by the Village of Oxford Court, he was arraigned in the Village of Oxford Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $2500 cash bail. Pier is to re-appear in the Village of Oxford Court on a later date.

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A growing number of bald eagles are being poisoned by ingesting lead from ammunition in animal carcasses left behind by hunters. New York biologists have documented an increase in bald eagle deaths from lead, even though the state’s eagle population has rebounded to record numbers since 1976. Hunters are being asked to consider switching to copper or steel ammo or to remove the carcasses of animals they kill, in order to protect the Bald Eagle population.

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The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will host "Summer Fest 2017" this Saturday at various locations in the village. Chamber Spokesperson June White explains:

(June White 7-17-17)

Various downtown businesses, plus the Jericho Arts Gallery will be open, there will also be a Golf Ball Drop, wandering musicians, a Movie in the Park, the festival runs from 2:00 until dark on Saturday.

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The 4th Annual NYKE Association's Kite Festival will return to Laurens this weekend at Edgewood Mountain both Saturday & Sunday. Spokesman Mike Harter explains:

(Mike Harter 7-17-17)

Harter said that the entrance to the location is just shy of the Gilbert Lake Park Entrance on Crow Hill Road in the Town of Laurens, there will be signs posted guiding interested visitors to the site. More information is available at 434-2380.

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Chenango County Sheriff’s Office responded to a burglary in progress in the Town of Norwich Saturday. 3 subjects were reported fleeing a residence and traveling behind neighboring properties. Deputies responded & located & arrested 25 year old Tiffany Vallance from North Norwich, 22 year old Faziem Jenkins from the City of Norwich, and 21 year old Russell Button of Plymouth. Jenkins and Vallance are accused of unlawfully entering the building while Button acted as a lookout, Jenkins and Vallance allegedly attempted to steal property of the owners. All 3 were charged with 2nd degree Burglary and Conspiracy; they were arraigned in the Town of North Norwich Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $5000 cash bail.

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Governor Cuomo hosted the 2017 Adirondack Summer Challenge this weekend, promoting the world-class tourism destinations and recreational opportunities in Upstate New York. The 2017 Adirondack Summer Challenge welcomed more than 400 guests, showcasing outdoor activities available to visitors in the region, including hiking, golfing and horseback riding. In 2016, New York welcomed a record 239 million visitors who spent nearly $65 billion, generating a total economic impact of more than $100 billion for the third straight year. Tourism remains the state's 4th largest employer, & 2nd largest industry, supporting more than 914,000 jobs annually.

Binghamton Police charged 21-year-old Jabari Ashe of Brooklyn for 2nd degree Murder, in connection with the death of 26-year-old Tyquan Gumbs of Binghamton. Gumbs was fatally shot on April 28th at 10 Fayette Street in Binghamton. Ashe was arrested in Brooklyn; He was arraigned & was remanded to the Broome County Jail.

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Governor Cuomo announced the Methane Reduction Plan, which includes 25 actions to reduce methane emissions from the landfill, oil and gas, and agricultural sectors across the state. The State DEC & the Energy Research and Development Authority will implement the plan, in conjunction with the Soil and Water Conservation Committee. The Governor is directing the state’s implementation of these actions by 2020 as part of State’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 40 percent by 2030

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Right-wing radio host Alex Jones apologized on his “Info Wars” show Wednesday and retracted false stories about Chobani regarding their Twin Falls Idaho Plant, and some of their refugee workers. Jones had previously accused Chobani employees' children in connection with the rape of a 5-year-old girl in Twin Falls. Chobani sued Jones on April 24, accusing him of posting false and defamatory information, regarding both the alleged crime; Jones also claimed that Chobani was linked to an increase in tuberculosis in the area. Twin Falls is home to a $450 million Chobani plant that employs more than 1,000 employees; they also operate a plant in Chenango County.

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The Norwich Fire Department is the recipient of a nearly $90,000 grant to purchase a new vehicle exhaust extraction system. U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced the grant was made, through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.

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The Sidney Center Improvement Group will hold their next meeting this evening. The meeting will be held at the Fire Hall beginning at 6:30 PM.

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The Chenango County Department of Health announced that a free rabies clinic is being held today for dogs, cats & domesticated ferrets. The clinic will be held at the Plymouth Fire house, from 5:30 to 6:30 PM.

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Governor Cuomo announced the winners of the Taste New York Inaugural Craft Beer Challenge, with 2 locals in a 1st Place tie. Brewery Ommegang from Cooperstown and Roscoe New York Beer Company were declared the winners in a tie following a blind taste test in New York City Wednesday afternoon.

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State Senator Jim Seward announced senate passage of a legislation to accelerate the availability of ridesharing locally during the upcoming July 4th holiday period. Seward is the co-sponsor of the bill that would allow transportation network companies to begin operating in upstate counties on June 29th, the original bill had ridesharing beginning July 9th. Companion legislation has been introduced in the state assembly.

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New York would be the first state in the nation to give every resident health care if a bill passed Tuesday in the State Assembly becomes law and creates a single-payer health-care system. The Health care would be paid for by an employment-based premium based on income, with employers paying 80%, with no co-pays or deductibles. The Assembly has passed the bill 3 years in a row; the Senate has not acted on the legislation.

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The Town of Unadilla Highway Department will have their Spring Clean Up today from 6:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Items will be accepted at the Town Highway Garage on County Highway 3, they will accept white goods, scrap metal, electronics, waste oil & up to six tires, more information is available at 369-5466.

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Hunters in New York State harvested an estimated 213,061 deer during the 2016-17 hunting seasons, an estimated 5% increase over 2015-16 levels, according to DEC statistics released Wednesday. The 2016 deer take included 106,055 antlerless deer and 107,006 antlered bucks. In the Southern Zone, hunters took 188,387 deer. More information is available at dec.ny.gov.

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State Senator Jim Seward joined community, labor and business leaders to announce the launch of New Yorkers for Affordable Energy, which supports increasing access to natural gas for manufacturing facilities, power production, transportation, and other purposes to support New York's economy and quality of life:

(Seward 5-2-17)

Seward said that the Coalition partners includes the Otsego County IDA, Manufacturers Association of the Southern Tier, The Business Council of New York State, more information can be found at www.affordableenergyny.com.

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Governor Cuomo announced the "Taste New York Inaugural Craft Beer Challenge" today. New Yorkers are invited to vote for their favorite New York craft brewery, The 5 with the most votes will be invited to attend the final Taste New York Inaugural Craft Beer Challenge Tasting Event in New York City, where a panel of all-star judges will decide the winner. Voting is taking place at taste.ny.gov/craft-beer-challenge

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The Next Meeting of the General Clinton canoe Regatta committees will be held tonight at the Highway 7 Bar and Grill in Bainbridge. At 6:30, the Race Committee Meeting will begin, followed at 7:30 PM with the Regular meeting. Information about the regatta is available at canoeregatta.org

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U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said that she is ruling out a run for president in 2020, as she is focused on running for re-election for her US Senate seat in 2018. Gillibrand had to speak on the subject again yesterday in the North Country; she gave the same answer as she has since the beginning of the year, when reporters suggested that she could be a viable Democratic Party candidate for the Presidential race in 2020.

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The annual Big Wheels Golf Tournament, held at the Delhi College Golf Course, will take place on Friday, May 12th. The event serves as a primary fundraiser for programs and services which provide assistance to Delaware County senior citizens. More information or to request an entry form please contact the Delaware County Office for the Aging at 607-832-5750.

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NYSEG reports power outages throughout the region from last night's powerful storm, with crews working to restore power as quickly as possible. A state of emergency was declared in Broome County by County Executive Jason Garnar; Broome County had over 13,000 customers without power this afternoon, Chenango County had over 5100 without power, Delaware County had over 1600 & Otsego County had over 2300 without power.

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The Town Of Oneonta will hold 2 public meetings this week to provide residents with information about an energy delivery program that may save residents money on their energy bill. The program, Community Choice Aggregation is a new State program, which has authorized communities to join to together to aggregate the purchase of electricity in hopes of getting better prices for the residents. The first informational meeting is today at the Oneonta Town Hall from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, the second meeting is on Thursday, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Foxcare Center.

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The New York State Senate passed a bill that would strengthen Kendra's Law and make it permanent. The bill enhances improves the quality and effectiveness of care provided to the mentally ill, and prevents Kendra's Law from expiring on June 30th. Kendra's Law was first enacted in 1999 after Kendra Webdale was pushed in front of a subway train by a man with untreated schizophrenia in New York City. The bill has been sent to the Assembly for consideration.

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A free entrepreneur workshop, "Startup Tactics," will be held today from 6:30-8:00 pm in the Oxford Academy Primary School multipurpose room. Brad Treat of the Southern Tier Startup Alliance will lead the presentation. This event will also be live streamed free through ensemble.dcmoboces.com, more information, is available at 843-2025, ext. 3301.

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An Open House will be held at "The Place" in downtown Norwich later today. Spokesperson Sharon Velsey told WCDO News about their program:

(Sharon Velsey 5-2-17)

The Place open house will run from 5:30 to 7:00 PM, at their East Main Street Norwich location, behind the Norwich Post Office.

NYSEG officials announced that they are monitoring weather forecasts due to today's high wind gusts forecast for the region. NYSEG's storm readiness teams have prepared crews and equipment to ensure that resources are in place to restore any downed power lines and power interruptions. Stay away from downed power lines even lines that appear dead can be deadly. NYSEG customers should call 1-800-572-1131 to report downed power lines or other hazardous situations.

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State Senator Fred Akshar told WCDO that he will hold 2 Town Hall Meetings with Constituents Saturday, first in Hancock & then in Windsor:

(Fred Akshar 3-8-17)

Senator Akshar said that the received over 10,000 responses to his recent survey, the results will be released in the next few days.

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Local representatives appeared at the home of Olga Ehret in Johnson City this morning, where Olga discussed the savings on her heating bills after having a free survey performed on her home, through the Home Performance with Energy Star Program. Brad Pacalis of the Public Policy & Education fund said that homeowners need to sign up as soon as possible to take advantage of the savings:

(Brad Pacalis 3-8-17)

Pacalis said that the program will only be available for a limited time, so Southern Tier homeowners should take advantage as soon as possible; the phone number for more information about the program is 723-0110.

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Governor Cuomo, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Members of the New York Congressional Delegation today announced over $5 million in federal Homeland Security grant funding for local governments across the state to bolster counter terrorism initiatives and strengthen public safety efforts. Funding will support local law enforcement tactical teams, technical search and rescue operations, and explosive detection canine units, while also safeguarding critical infrastructure across New York.

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State Senator Jim Seward will be at the I-88 Wells Bridge rest stop between exits 12 and 11 Thursday afternoon. Senator Seward will officially reopen the fully rehabilitated I-88 rest stop at 1:00 PM; the stop was closed due to state budget cuts in 2010.

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A Volunteer meeting will be held tonight in Oneonta for those who want to sign up for the Memorial Day Weekend visit to Oneonta of the Mobile Veterans Wall. Organizer Gene Schmidt said he needs many volunteers:

(Gene Schmidt 3-8-17)

The meeting will be held tonight at the Salvation Army Gym at 25 River Street in Oneonta starting at 7:00 PM, more information is available at 610-4030.

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The Delaware County Department of Economic Development announced the acceptance of applications under the County’s 3rd-year Agricultural Microenterprise Program, which will make matching grants available up to $30,000 to eligible ag-based businesses. The Department of Economic Development will hold an application workshop, at the County eCenter in Delhi on Thursday, March 16th at 6:00 PM. Applications must be received by Monday, April 10th, more information is available by calling 832-5123.

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Governor Cuomo today announced a new electric vehicle campaign that includes the installation of charging stations, incentives for employers to encourage employees to drive electric vehicles and extensive public education and outreach. Work on the projects will start immediately and will include the installation of 450 charging stations across the state, 150 will be located at workplaces across the upstate region.

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The Arc Otsego will host a free Self-Direction Information Session today from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at The Arc Otsego, 35 Academy Street in Oneonta. Individuals with developmental disabilities and their families who are looking for more authority and choice in their supports and services should attend. More information is available at 267-3210.

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US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said that she would serve a full 6-year term in the Senate if she is re-elected in 2018. Gillibrand's name has come up as a potential democratic challenger for the presidency in 2020, as she has consistently opposed president Trump's nominees & policies. Gillibrand appeared on Late Night with Seth Myers on NBC Wednesday night.

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Governor Cuomo announced the number of craft beverage manufacturers operating off-site branch stores has increased to 105 locations in 35 counties across New York. All farm-based beverage manufacturers, including wineries, breweries, cideries and distilleries, are allowed to open off-site retail stores, with 32 new locations opening in the last year. New York is home to 72 farm winery branch stores, up from 29 satellite stores in 2011, recently 17 farm breweries, 10 farm distilleries and six farm cideries have opened branch stores.

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On Tuesday, State Senator Fred Akshar and Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo will host the players, coaches and families of the 2016 Little League World Series Champions Maine-Endwell for a full day at the Capitol in Albany, culminating in resolutions recognizing the team's achievement on both the Senate and Assembly floors.

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State Trooper Neil case of the Richfield Springs barracks has been picked to represent law enforcement for the state in the Special Olympics. Trooper Case has been selected to carry the torch to honor his son, who has Down syndrome, while raising awareness for people with disabilities. The Special Olympics will pay the $10,000 it costs to send Case to Austria. But Case told officials that he doesn't want to take away money from the athletes, so instead he's set up a fundraiser to cover those costs. Donations are accepted at specialolympicsinc.donordrive.com, Trooper Case has already raised over $7,000.

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested and charged 25-year-old Justin Miranda of Livingston Manor Saturday, for DWI and Driving with a Blood Alcohol Content Greater than 0.08%. The arrest following an accident where a vehicle went off of the road and into a snow covered field in the Town of Delhi. Miranda is also accused of driving at speeds not reasonable or prudent, Miranda was released on appearance tickets and scheduled to appear before the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

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The Chenango Arts Council has had a change in leadership & staff recently, with Alecia O'Neill named as interim Executive Director, she told WCDO News that she & her staff are committed to getting children interested in all aspects of the Arts & Theater, through the "STEAM" program:

(Alecia ONeill 2-24-17)

O'Neill replaces Diane Batson Smith, who returned to New York City to take a new Position with the International Botanical gardens in the Bronx.

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SUNY Delhi will present “Learn about College Degrees & Career Opportunities, at 1:00 today at the CDO Workforce Center in the Sidney Civic Center. Misty Fields, Assistant Director of Admissions at SUNY Delhi, will provide information about the application process, financial aid, and training & career programs with SUNY Delhi and other SUNY Colleges. Reservations or more information is available at 561-7550.

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The Bainbridge Town Hall Theatre and Gallery will host their next show Saturday night at 7:00 PM. Slewfoot will perform; reservations are accepted at 288-3882

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12 Local Wrestlers Are Heading To The New York State high school wrestling championships in Albany Today & Tomorrow, WCDO Sports Director Nate Lull spoke with 2 B-G-A-H- Wrestlers who made the tournament.

(Nate Lull 2-24-17)

Nate will have full coverage on his Twitter page, which can be found at wcdosports.com

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